Page 50 of Blood Bonds

“An innate instinct to protect,” he whispered, his head still buried in her shoulder. “You misted us before he even stepped into the bedroom.”

“Did he follow?”

Sethios shook his head. “I don’t feel him.”

She waited, watching and searching for even the tiniest change of energy.

The home remained utterly quiet, but outside, the sun was setting.

Time difference.

Right.

Her limbs shook as the adrenaline fled her system in a rush, and Sethios’s arms were all that held her upright. Despite his obviously weakened state, he managed to lift her and carry her into what appeared to be an oversized living area. The lack of dust suggested he visited often, or, more likely, someone maintained the home in his absence.

Sethios settled into the closest chair with her in his lap and buried his head in her neck once more. “Thank you,” he whispered.

Her brow furrowed. “For what?”

“Taking me with you.”

His words struck her right in the heart. Not for a moment had she considered leaving him behind. She could have easily misted without him, even with him holding her, but she’d been utterly focused on their connection to ensure he did come with her.

She blinked.

What would have happened if she hadn’t joined him in bed? If she had stayed in her own room and sensed the presence from there? Picking someone up mid-mist wasn’t possible. If Osiris arrived while they were separated, she’d have no choice but to leave Sethios behind.

Unless they formed a proper blood bond. That would connect them on a level so deep that she’d be able to find him anywhere. Assuming she was able and coherent, of course.

Could she consider such a connection? Yes.

Should she? No.

They were about to have a child together, but neither of them knew what the future held. Their partnership was tentative, at least for now.

But perhaps once they knew more—knew each other better—they could discuss a blood bond.

Maybe.

Until then, they needed to make certain provisions in case Osiris found them again.

“You need to drink from me at least twice a day, and we will remain within two feet of each other going forward.” There. That would cover it.

Sethios chuckled. “Yeah? Does that include showering together, angel?”

“Yes. You must remain within arm’s reach of me to be misted, or we risk my having to leave you behind.”

“Chaining us together already?” He did not appear to be taking her seriously. “And I haven’t even proposed yet.”

She turned in his lap to level him with a glower. “Do you understand that had I been in my room when he arrived, I would have been forced to leave you behind?”

Some of his amusement faded as he held her gaze. “And that would bother you?”

“Yes.” What a ridiculous question. “Of course it would.”

A fire lit his green irises. “You took me with you because you wanted to.”

“You didn’t compel me, if that’s what you mean.” She could sense his persuasion, and he hadn’t used it on her in weeks.